Upright Hook Assembly With Tilting Locking Finger Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support device systems require multiple complex fixing systems, additional assembly members, and limited mounting configurations, leading to increased costs and complexity in assembly and storage, as well as restricted orientation options for support elements.
Innovation Solution
An assembly comprising an upright with a through hole and a locking finger that can tilt between two positions, allowing a hook to be inserted and securely locked, featuring an internal ramp for enhanced stability and multiple mounting configurations without additional assembly members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pins are used to fix the support element on the upright, then the support element is securely attached, but additional assembly members are required which increase cost, storage requirements, and assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking finger is integrated directly into the upright structure, merging the locking function with the upright itself. This eliminates the need for separate pins or fasteners, as the locking finger performs the attachment security function that would otherwise require additional assembly members.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking finger automatically engages with the support element when the element is inserted into the upright. The system is self-acting, requiring no additional fasteners or complex assembly procedures, while still providing secure attachment.
2Reliability
If a traditional pin-based fixing system is used, then the support element is securely attached, but multiple fixing systems are required for different orientations, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking finger is designed to work with support elements in multiple orientations (front, rear, left, or right facing). A single locking finger design provides universal attachment capability for all orientations, eliminating the need for different fixing systems for different mounting configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking finger can be positioned at different locations on the upright (front, rear, left, or right) depending on the desired orientation of the support element. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same locking mechanism to adapt to various mounting orientations without requiring multiple fixed systems.
3Reliability
If pins are used for fixation, then the support element is securely attached, but the cost increases due to purchasing, storing, and managing stock of additional assembly members
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged into the upright structure itself through the integrated locking finger. This eliminates the need for separate pin components, reducing the total quantity of parts that need to be purchased, stored, and managed.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin-based fastening system is extracted and replaced with an integrated locking mechanism. This removes the need for additional assembly members while maintaining attachment security, thereby reducing component quantity and associated costs.
4Ease of operation
If hooks are used to attach support elements, then the elements can be easily installed, but the hooks can come out under vertical upward forces reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The locking finger utilizes a curved or inclined surface geometry that creates a mechanical interlock with the support element. This curved interface prevents the element from disengaging under upward forces while still allowing easy insertion, combining installation ease with reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is divided into distinct functional zones: an insertion zone that allows easy installation and a locking zone that prevents removal under load. The locking finger creates a segmented engagement path that separates the ease of insertion from the security of retention.
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The assembling unit has two pairs of stop pins (19) in the form of strip. Each pin has a through hole in a shape of a slit (20) for passage of a tool. Each pin is adjacent to a hook (15) and is tilted between two positions. The pin is not opposed to the mounting of the unit on an upright (2) by engagement of a hook in a position and the pin avoids the unhooking of the hook by penetrating in a hole (9) of the upright in the other position. An independent claim is also included for a support device comprising an upright and an upright assembling unit.